Forsworn

Forsworn is a past participle of the verb 'forswear', meaning to renounce or reject something formally, often under oath; to abandon, or to solemnly give up a previously held belief or loyalty. It implies a significant and often public declaration of abandoning a commitment, promise, allegiance, or belief. The act is usually done in a very serious and solemn manner, potentially involving severe repercussions. It can range from a simple breaking of a promise to treason or apostasy, depending on what is forsworn. The term frequently carries connotations of betrayal, deceit, and the relinquishing of something once considered sacred or vital. The consequences of being Forsworn can vary wildly, depending on the context of the forswearing, but are often negative, and sometimes catastrophic.

Forsworn meaning with examples

• After witnessing the king's cruelty, the knight, once his most loyal champion, forswore his allegiance. He dramatically ripped the royal banner, vowing never to serve such a tyrannical ruler again. This act sent ripples of shock and uncertainty throughout the kingdom, as it demonstrated the extent of the king's failings, but ultimately, the knight joined a rebellion.
• The cult leader, once revered, forswore his own teachings when confronted with evidence that exposed them as harmful and fabricated. In a televised confession, he admitted to years of deception, acknowledging the manipulation he inflicted. This act of forswearing, shocking to his followers, led to the swift collapse of the cult and the rescue of many of its victims.
• Having promised her family she would stay with the farm, but dreaming of the life that only London could offer, she felt trapped until the moment she forswore her promise. Taking no thought for the pain it may cause to those she loved, she ran away, leaving the family that had nurtured her for all her life to finally pursue the life she dreamed of.
• The ancient order of monks, known for their pacifist creed, forswore their vows of non-violence when faced with a catastrophic invasion. Driven by a need to protect their sacred lands, they armed themselves, signaling a dramatic shift in their long-standing tradition. This was a difficult decision to make, and it led to a painful schism within the order.